Oxycontin Addiction

OxyContin, a trade name for oxycodone hydrochloride, is a legally prescribed medication used for treating moderate to severe pain. Individuals who abuse OxyContin do so for its euphoric effect, which is similar to that of heroin. The National Drug Intelligence Center (NDIC) reports that nearly one million individuals in the United States age 12 and older have abused OxyContin at least once. Abuse among high school students is a particular problem with four percent of seniors reporting abusing OxyContin at least once during the past year.

Effects of OxyContin

OxyContin, an agonist opioid, is a Schedule II controlled substance, which indicates a high potential for abuse and addiction, similar to that of morphine. As OxyContin enters the body, the stimulating effects on certain opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord and central nervous system deliver a range of responses. Pain relief is the goal for the properly prescribed and used dosage. Other effects can include slowed respirations and euphoria. Abuse of OxyContin can be dangerous and addictive. The controlled-release pill is intended to provide continual pain management. When taken as directed by your doctor, it is generally safe. An unsafe and intense “high” occurs when OxyContin is taken more frequently than prescribed or by crushing the pill and either chewing, snorting or mixing with liquid for injection. This puts the entire dose into the body without the safeguard of the slow release.

Signs of Addiction

There are physical, behavioral and social changes that indicate a possible addiction to OxyContin. These include:

  • Excessive sweating
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
  • Twitching
  • Decreased motivation
  • Irritability
  • Irrational behavior and thinking
  • Loss of appetite
  • Sleeping more than usual
  • Withdrawing from friends, family and activities
  • Difficulty at work or school
  • Mood swings

If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you care about, it’s time to reach out for help.

What Can I Do?

The addict often doesn’t see his or her OxyContin abuse as a problem. If you are seeking help for a loved one, it is a good idea to check out the options before attempting to approach the addict about getting help. Find out as much as you can about the person’s medication or drug routine, including prescription, non-prescription and illegal drugs. You will need this information to share with a counselor as you make inquiries to rehab facilities. A professional counselor will be able to provide specific information about the availability of programs that will address the needs of the addict. Approach the addict with an attitude of care and concern. Be open about your worries for their health, safety and well-being. As they respond, be ready to offer to take them for an appointment at a treatment facility. If they refuse help, you may need to take the next step and plan an intervention. A professional interventionist can guide you through this process.

Getting Treatment for Addiction

Addiction treatment is an ongoing process for months and even years, in some cases. The initial treatment includes a time of withdrawal, known as detoxification, while the drug is removed from your body. Choose a facility that has a professional staff qualified to monitor and manage the withdrawal effects of OxyContin. Other aspects of the treatment program should include counseling and therapies to help transition from a physical and psychological dependence on OxyContin.